From four reported deaths less than a week ago, fatality due to Legionnaire's has now doubled its victims in Illinois to eight.

The latest report also includes four new cases since the outbreak first reported last week.

As of Wednesday, Sept. 2, eight deaths and 49 illnesses have been reported, with most dead and sick people coming from the Illinois Veterans Home in Quincy. In just the facility alone, the Illinois Department of Public Health announced the death of seven people, and a total of 45 cases. The eighth death and four new cases were those of residents of a western town in the state.

According to the state health department, the new reported cases are not at all connected with an infectious disease outbreak sickening almost 50 people from the Veterans Home, although they are in the same city.

Severe pneumonia has actually killed the eighth victim, similar to the seven elderly residents of the Veterans Home, said Jerrod Welch, director of the Adams County Health Department. Underlying health conditions also increased the victim's risk of exposure.

Health officials anticipate more reports of deaths and cases.

The lethal Legionnaire's disease is caused by the Legionella bacteria, and results in a severe form of pneumonia. Fever, chills, cough and muscle aches are the common symptoms of this disease. One thing people need to remember is that the bacteria cannot be passed from one person to another. Catching the disease actually involves inhaling water vapor or mist that has been already infected with Legionella.

The potentially deadly bacteria grow in and survive through warm waters, so outbreaks are most common during the hottest times of the year. The best way to prevent the disease is to make sure water systems are safe and clean. Disinfecting hot tubs, sinks and other systems best help in steering clear from infections

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the prevalence of outbreaks this year isn't unusual; however, the number of reported deaths and illnesses are particularly high, compared with what is typically seen. In Illinois, the disease broke out just late last week, with the first case occurring at the Veterans Home.

While the source of the outbreak remains undetermined, the CDC epidemiological team also remains at the facility, conducting further investigation to assist the state.

Photo: Yale Rosen | Flickr